The next morning, Lauryn woke up to the soft sound of the waves crashing against the shore. The sun was just beginning to peek through the blinds, casting a warm, golden glow across the room. She stretched, feeling the cool sheets against her skin, and let out a small yawn. Her head felt a bit heavier than usual, but she shrugged it off as she slowly sat up, the lingering comfort of last night's moments with Conrad still fresh in her mind.

She had woken up a few times during the night, the weight of her thoughts keeping her restless, but she hadn't minded. She felt a deep sense of peace being there with Conrad, knowing that he was okay for the moment. He had fallen asleep beside her, his hand resting protectively on her back, and the warmth of his touch had kept her grounded as sleep eventually found her again. As she stretched and climbed out of bed, a slight dizziness washed over her, but it was subtle enough that she thought it was just the lingering effects of sleep. She walked over to the window, drawing back the curtains slightly, and peered outside. The world felt calm, the air crisp with the morning breeze. It was a new day. Lauryn turned around, glancing at the bed and the empty spot where Conrad had been. He must have gotten up early, which wasn't unusual for him. She smiled, thinking back to the way he'd held her the night before, his comfort and presence soothing her.

As she made her way into the kitchen, her head still felt a bit off, a slight ache throbbing in the back of her mind. She rubbed her temples lightly, but the movement didn't ease the discomfort. She then smelt the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the kitchen followed by the amazing smell of bacon sizzling in the pan. Lauryn smiled to herself, recognizing Conrad's signature morning routine when they were together. He always made sure to have breakfast ready for them, especially when he sensed she was a bit off or needed some extra care. Her heart fluttered at the thought of him. He was so attentive and caring, always making sure she was okay, and the simple gestures always made her feel loved and cared for. She walked into the kitchen, finding him standing over the stove, a spatula in one hand and a mug of steaming coffee in the other.

She leaned against the doorway, watching him silently, her eyes taking in his muscular frame. She still couldn't believe that this amazing handsome boy was hers, and every day, she thanked the universe for bringing him into her life. She pushed herself off the doorway, making her way over to him and wrapping her arms around his waist to hug him from behind. Conrad stiffened for a moment, clearly surprised, but then his muscles relaxed as he recognized Lauryn's touch. He smiled, placing his hand over hers, the warmth of his body and the scent of his cologne a comfort in the peaceful morning.

"Good morning, Lulu," He murmurs softly, tilting his head back to catch a glimpse of her face. "You sleep well?" He leaned down to kiss her forehead, the contact sending a gentle and full of affection.

Lauryn hummed, pressing her face into his shoulder, her fingers tracing patterns along his lower abdomen. She loved the way his muscles tensed and relaxed beneath her touch. Lauryn rested her cheek against his back, inhaling the familiar scent of him. She closed her eyes for a moment, feeling a mix of emotions flood through her. She didn't want to admit how much the pain in her head had grown or how much she was struggling with the weight of everything on her shoulders, but in this moment, with his steady presence, she felt a bit of relief.

"Yeah, I did," She replies with a shrug. "Just woke up a little dizzy, but it's nothing. Probably just need some food." Her words were spoken softly, the truth of her condition possibly coming back lingering at the back of her mind. She would tell him soon, just not now. Not yet.

Conrad pulls back in concern and gently tilts Lauryn's chin up to meet his gaze. His brow furrows, his eyes soft with worry. "Are you sure you're okay, Lulu? You don't look like you're just a little dizzy. Maybe you should sit down for a second. I can take care of the breakfast."

Lauryn gives him a reassuring smile, though it doesn't quite reach her eyes. "I'm fine, Coco. Really. Just a little off today, that's all. I think I need some food and a little rest. It'll pass." She doesn't want to worry him, especially not when he's already under so much pressure. And that's probably all she needed. Just some food and some rest. Then the dizziness and the headache will go away.

"Well, if you're sure..." Conrad doesn't look entirely convinced, but he doesn't press the issue. He kisses her forehead once more before turning back to the stove, the smell of the bacon growing stronger as the strips sizzle in the pan. "Go ahead and sit down, babe. Breakfast will be ready soon."

Lauryn nods, kissing his shoulder before stepping away and moving to pull out some plates and cups. After she's done, she sat at the table to wait for him, resting her chin on her hand after propping her elbow up on the table. She watched as he focuses on the breakfast, his movements sure and steady, like he's done this a million times before. The sight of him cooking, taking care of her in his quiet way, fills her with warmth. Her heart swells with affection for him, but a pang of guilt hits her as she remembers the truth she's holding back. She wishes she could tell him everything, that she could unburden herself and let him know how scared she is, but for now, she needs to stay strong. For him, and for herself.

****

After breakfast and getting ready for the day, they met up with the others and found out the AC broke which Lauryn assumed someone had done something to it to make Julia cancel the open house that had been today. The group now were entering the boardwalk after Belly suggested they should go there when Julia made it clear she wanted them all gone for the day. Belly even invited Skye, Conrad and Jeremiah's cousin and Julia's daughter with them too. Lauryn thought that was sweet of Belly to do and though Skye was reluctant, she had a feeling despite Skye's nature, they would enjoy the day out with the group. Lauryn didn't know them that well, but from what she heard, Skye always kept to themself and Lauryn knew it took a bit for them to warm up to new people or situations, but Belly's invitation was a good gesture to help bring them into the fold, even if they she didn't admit it.

The boardwalk was busy with people milling around, enjoying the sunny day. The vibrant colors of the shops and the smell of salty ocean air mixed with the sweet scent of cotton candy. Lauryn felt a gentle shift in her mood as they walked along, her steps becoming lighter with each breath of fresh air. She was surrounded by the laughter and chatter of her friends, and though she could feel the lingering weight of her thoughts, the atmosphere at the boardwalk offered a welcome distraction. While Lauryn loved going to the boardwalk, she didn't love this heat. The heat was sweltering, making her feel sticky and uncomfortable despite the refreshing breeze from the ocean.

"See, aren't you glad we came?" Belly asked curiously.

"How is this any less hot than it would be inside?" Conrad questioned in disbelief.

"Because you have the magical sea breeze to cool you down." Belly replied.

"Cool breeze, my a**." Taylor complains. "I want some ice cream. Nature's air conditioning." 

****

Lauryn walks beside Conrad up a flight of stairs as they follow the group. They all had ice cream now, agreeing it was a good idea since it was so hot. Lauryn loved ice cream, and it was the perfect treat to help beat the heat. The sweet, creamy flavors offered a brief escape from the warmth, and she was grateful for the break. "You know, I'm kind of a natural introvert, so I can't tell if this place is horrifying or if it's just, like, my lizard brain in action." Skye admitted.

"It's fun, I promise." Belly assured them.

"Yeah, it really is fun!" Lauryn agrees, beaming at Skye. "I get it," She continues, offering a warm smile. "It can be a lot with all the noise and people, but there's something about the energy here that's just...Fun. I think you'll enjoy it once you get into the groove of things."

"Fun?" Jeremiah chuckles. "Lulu, I seem to remember the last time we were here, you were crying." He glances at Skye with amusement. "She was crying 'cause Conrad beat her at Shoot Your Shot. And her penalty was the Ferris wheel alone."

Lauryn's face flushes at the memory, and she quickly shakes her head. "That was one time! And I did manage to conquer my fear of heights, okay? At least, a little bit. But anyway, that was ages ago. Now, I actually enjoy it. And the carnival games, and the food, and all the rides."

"Even the Ferrish Wheel and literally any other tall rides?" Jeremiah teased, grinning.

"I can tolerate them." Lauryn replied, rolling her eyes though a playful smile tugged at her lips. "But honestly, heights terrified me." She admitted, glancing over at Skye. "The first time I went on the Ferris wheel, I thought I was going to die, like, for real," She adds with a half-laugh, half-groan. "I could barely breathe, but then once I was up there, it wasn't so bad. I think I just needed to get over the initial panic."

"What helped you get over the fear?" Skye asked curiously.

Lauryn thinks back, smiling at the memory and her heart fluttering as she realized Conrad had been the one to help her and encourage her. Even back then when she still had that crush on Jeremiah. "Honestly, it was Conrad. He was so calm about it, so reassuring. I think he noticed how scared I was and just kept talking me through it. At first, I was terrified, but hearing him tell me it was fine and that I was going to be okay made all the difference. It wasn't just the ride itself, but his support that helped me get through it. He distracted me with conversation and made me laugh. By the time the ride was over, I was actually kind of disappointed."

"So are you saying you'd ride the Ferrish wheel again?" Conrad grinned at her, nudging her lightly with his elbow.

"With you, yeah." Lauryn nods, laughing. "I think I could do it."

Skye glances between the two, a smile tugging at their lips. "Remember when Belly cried after Coco beat her at Shoot Your Shot?" Lauryn cut in, gaining a look from Belly while she grins. "Her penalty was to ride the Tower of Terror. I don't blame her for throwing up and being so scared. I would've too if I had to go on that ride.'

"I was sick." Belly defended herself.

"Sick with fear." Conrad teases. "My mom had to throw out your clothes and carry you home in a caftan."

"I know." Belly muttered in a defeated tone. Lauryn chuckled as some others laughed while she nudged Belly to comfort her, knowing how embarrassing the story was.

She smiles warmly at Belly. "Hey, we all have our moments. It happens." She reassured, giving her a gentle nudge. Belly smiled back, though she still looked a little embarrassed.

"Susannah used to force my mom to come here when they were kids." Skye admits. "My mom always hated it, but Susannah loved it so much, so..."

"You know what else my mom loved? The beach house." Conrad responds and winced when Lauryn roughly elbowed his side. "What?" He mumbled as he looked down at her while Skye looked defeated.

"My mom's not evil, Conrad." Skye tells him. "And your mom wasn't a saint."

"Skye, have you ever played Shoot Your Shot?" Belly interjected, changing the subject.

"No, and I'm-I'm fine keeping it that way." Skye admitted.

Lauryn's eyes sparkles as she spotted the familiar setup of a carnival game nearby, a nostalgic grin spreading across her face. "Ooh! Have you ever played that one?" She points to the game, gesturing excitedly. "It's called Balloon Blast. I love that game so much. I beat Conrad at it every time." She adds, glancing at Conrad with a smirk. "I bet I could beat you again."

"Oh, is that a challenge?" Conrad smirked back at her, raising a brow.

"I mean, if you're up for it..." Lauryn replied playfully.

"I'm always up for it, Lulu. Just say the word." Conrad grinned.

"Okay, no, please not another Great Boardwalk Showdown." Steven pleaded.

"Why not?" Belly laughed.

"No." Conrad frowns. "What are you doing?"

"We totally should have one!" Lauryn beamed.

"So they used to do this big tournament on the boardwalk every year when they were kids. I would get a, um, a riveting play-by-play as soon as Belly got home." Taylor explained to Skye.

"Well yeah every year until Lauryn and Conrad got too competitive. And then my mom banned us from ever playing again." Steven added.

"Are you down, Jere?" Conrad asked Jeremiah hopefully.

"Uh..." Jeremiah glances between him and Belly, who grins back at him. He nods, glancing at his brother. "H*** yeah. Let's do it."

"Whoo, yes!" Steven cheered, fist bumping Jeremiah and Conrad.

"Oh, so now you want it to happen?" Lauryn teased him.

Steven shrugs with a sheepish grin. "What can I say? The nostalgia's hitting hard. Plus, it's amusing watching you and Conrad get all competitive."

"Skye, do you wanna join us?" Lauryn turns to Skye with an encouraging smile after rolling her eyes at Steven. "You're more than welcomed to."

"I should actually, um, head out." Skye mumbled and Lauryn frowned, her shoulders slumping in defeat. She understood if Skye didn't want to, but it almost seemed like they didn't want to because of their cousins.

Noticing Lauryn's sudden sadness at Skye's reply, Conrad shakes his had, glancing at his cousin. "No, you should stay." He geniuenly encourages them. He clears his throat and smiles encouragingly. "It's fun."

Skye looks at him with surprise, their lips curving upwards but they didn't say anything as they turned back to their ice cream. "Look, I totally understand if you don't wanna play, I don't wanna force you or anything, but you'd be on the best team there is and that's our team." Lauryn chimed in with a grin, standing between Belly and Taylor and sharing a grin with them.

Skye's lips curve up slightly. "Fine. You win. But I don't do high fives. I'm not gonna, like, whoop in the air. I don't trash talk. The corners of my mouth might turn up just a little bit, but I'm not gonna smile."

Lauryn excahges a look with Taylor and Belly, nodding with them and looking at Skye. "Deal." The trio spoke together and Skye nodded.

"Deal." Skye replies. "So what's the prize?" They curiously asked.

"Losers have to buy the winners the biggest bag of candy of their choosing." Jeremiah responded.

Taylor glances at him with surprise and slight amusement. "Really? Candy? No, I mean, cna't we think of something, like, sexier?"

"Candy's always been the prize. Lauryn and Belly came up with it, obviously." Jeremiah explained.

"Well, fine. Fine. We can play the games. But...We start at the arcade because it is hot as balls out here." Steven suggests as some laughter filled the air. "Okay?"

"True that." Skye agreed.

"Yes!" Lauryn says excitedly, grinning at her boyfriend and friends. "So we're in? We're doing this, yeah?"

"Wait, hold on! The teams aren't even." Steven points out with a pout. He points at Skye and the girls. "You guys have one more team member than us, and that's not fair. We need to fix this."

"I think it's totally fair." Taylor grinned, chuckling with Lauryn, Belly, and Skye.

"Look, I can just be a Plan B option." Lauryn suggests after she felt another headache starting to build up, hoping the group didn't notice. She wanted to help them and she wanted to play, but not for everything especially if she wasn't going to feel well. "I don't mind not playing some games. I can be someone if they wanna tap out and have me go for it instead I can play instead if it gets too intense. You know, just a backup plan."

Belly raised an eyebrow but smiled. "You're always thinking ahead, huh?"

Jeremiah chuckles. "That's Lauryn. She always has backup plans and options in case things don't go according to plan."

Lauryn tries to smile, though the headache was starting to make her feel a little lightheaded. "Yeah, well...Better to be prepared, right?" She said, hoping her attempt at humor would mask how she was feeling.

Skye, picking up on the slight change in Lauryn's tone, gave her a careful glance. "Are you sure you're okay?"

Lauryn gave a small nod, her smile not quite reaching her eyes. "Yeah, just a little headache. Nothing I can't handle." She replies, hoping to brush it off. "Now, come on, are we doing this?" She excitedly added, trying to redirect the focus back to the group and the fun ahead.

"Of course we are!" Belly laughed and the group cheers as they sprinted towards the arcade, Lauryn's heart thrumming with excitement and adrenaline. This was going to be fun.